Optimizing okra performance through plant growth regulators in the Garhwal Himalayan region

This study explored how plant growth regulators (PGRs) affect okra growth, yield and quality in Uttarakhand’s Garhwal Himalayas. The research, conducted during the 2023-2024 kharif season, focused on gibberellic acid (GA₃), naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) and indole acetic acid (IAA) at different concentrations. PGRs significantly improved okra’s growth and reproductive traits. GA₃ at 200 ppm achieved 100 per cent germination and increased plant height to 79.65 cm by 90 days after sowing. While NAA at 150 ppm maximized leaf production, GA₃ treatments generally led to earlier flowering. Crucially, GA₃ applications significantly enhanced fruit characteristics and overall yield. GA₃ at 200 ppm resulted in the largest fruits (12.52 cm length, 7.11 cm diameter, 15.60 g weight) and the highest yield per plant (0.21 kg), plot (2.50 kg) and hectare (10.44 tonnes). These benefits are linked to GA3’s ability to boost metabolism, aid cell expansion and efficiently direct nutrients to fruits. In conclusion, while NAA and IAA offered some advantages, GA₃ consistently proved superior for improving okra vigour, accelerating fruit development and substantially increasing fruit size and yield in challenging hilly environments. The study highlights the critical role of GA₃ and NAA in optimizing okra production for better yields.